Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji review

I usually only do picture book posts on Saturdays with my Picture Book Saturday compilations, but this one has so much going for it, it deserves its own day. Storytelling, facts about Indian-American culture, lots of family moments, and FOOD are all included in this story and I loved every minute of it.

Aneel loves listening to his grandfather's stories from India and after hearing of his Dada-ji's many crazy adventures all fueled by fresh, steaming hot roti, Aneel wants to make some roti too! After eating their hot, hot roti, Aneel and Dada-ji are able to make their own adventures in their backyard.

Filled with a nice feeling of family and love, the combination of the stories from India, the energy of Dada-ji, and the yummy roti process, this is a fantastic multicultural picture book. Traditional Hindi words and phrases are woven into the story beautifully and all explained in a glossary in the back.

I do wish a recipe for roti was included, but the love that poured off the page made up for that, as did Ken Min's bright, fun illustrations. A really great choice for family reading, teaching about other cultures, etc.

Nice to meet you!

I'm Amanda! I'm a book lover, former librarian, wannabe runner, military wife, and toddler mom. Here you'll find ramblings on great books for all ages and the occasional musing on life. Thanks for stopping by!